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Error code reference

Daewoo Refrigerator Error Code RT

RT-sensor (room temperature sensor) malfunction due to short circuit or wire disconnection.

RT-sensor (room temperature sensor) malfunction due to short circuit or wire disconnection.

First step from the service manual

Check RT-sensor for short circuit or wire disconnection; in fuzzy mode, control temperature according to outside temperature is disabled.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
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What RT means on a Daewoo refrigerator

The RT error code on a Daewoo refrigerator indicates a malfunction in the RT sensor, which is the room temperature (ambient temperature) sensor. This sensor monitors the surrounding environmental temperature and feeds that data to the refrigerator's control board. Daewoo refrigerators with fuzzy logic control use this ambient reading to dynamically adjust internal cooling behavior based on the conditions outside the unit. When the control board detects an abnormal signal from the RT sensor, either due to a short circuit or a broken/disconnected wire, it triggers the RT fault code.

The two primary electrical failure modes are a short circuit in the sensor circuit and an open circuit caused by wire disconnection or sensor failure. A short circuit causes resistance to drop to near zero, sending a signal outside the expected range to the control board. A wire disconnection or broken sensor element causes an open circuit, resulting in no signal at all. Either condition makes the sensor reading unreliable or absent, prompting the fault.

When this error is active, the fuzzy mode function that uses outside ambient temperature to modulate cooling is disabled. The refrigerator may still operate in a default or degraded cooling mode, but the temperature control logic will not account for environmental conditions. Inspecting the sensor wiring harness for visible damage, corrosion, or loose connectors is the recommended starting point, followed by checking the sensor element itself for proper resistance values.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of RT

  1. 01

    Disconnected or broken sensor wire

    Wiring / connection

    The wiring harness connecting the RT sensor to the control board may have a break, loose connector, or pulled-out terminal. Inspect the full length of the wire and connectors for visible damage or separation.

  2. 02

    Short circuit in the sensor circuit

    Wiring / connection

    The sensor wiring may be pinched, chafed, or touching a grounded metal surface, causing a short circuit. This drops the resistance in the circuit to near zero and registers as an out-of-range reading on the control board.

  3. 03

    Failed RT sensor element

    Part replacement

    The sensor element itself may have failed internally, producing either no signal or an incorrect resistance value. If wiring checks out intact, the sensor unit likely needs replacement.

  4. 04

    Corroded or damaged connector terminals

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture or age can cause corrosion at the sensor connector, increasing resistance or breaking continuity entirely. Clean or replace the connector terminals if corrosion is found.

  5. 05

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    If the sensor and all wiring test within normal parameters, the control board input circuit for the RT sensor may have failed. This is the least common cause and is typically diagnosed after all other components are ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about RT

What does RT mean on a Daewoo refrigerator?
The RT code on a Daewoo refrigerator indicates a fault with the room temperature sensor, also called the ambient temperature sensor. The control board has detected either a short circuit or a wire disconnection in that sensor circuit. When this fault is active, the fuzzy logic function that adjusts cooling based on the surrounding room temperature is disabled. The refrigerator may still operate, but not at full smart-control capability.
Can I fix the RT error on my Daewoo refrigerator myself?
Yes, in many cases the repair is approachable for a technically confident DIYer. Start by unplugging the refrigerator, then locate the RT sensor and inspect its wiring harness and connectors for any breaks, loose connections, or corrosion. If the wiring appears intact, the sensor element itself may need to be tested or replaced. If those checks do not resolve the fault, a professional technician should evaluate the control board.
Is it safe to keep using my Daewoo refrigerator while the RT error is showing?
The refrigerator may continue to cool with the RT error active, but it will operate without the ambient temperature compensation feature that fuzzy mode relies on. This means it may not respond optimally to hot or cold room conditions. It is generally safe to continue using the unit short-term, but the fault should be repaired to restore full control performance and avoid potential overcooling or undercooling issues.
Will resetting my Daewoo refrigerator clear the RT error code?
A reset may temporarily clear the displayed code, but if the underlying sensor or wiring fault is still present, the RT error will return once the control board re-checks the sensor circuit. A reset is not a fix for this error. The physical cause, whether a broken wire, short circuit, or failed sensor, must be identified and corrected for the code to stay cleared.
How much does it cost to repair the RT error on a Daewoo refrigerator?
Repair costs vary depending on the cause. If only a connector needs reseating or a wire needs repair, the cost can be minimal, primarily the cost of a service call if a technician is involved. Replacing the RT sensor itself typically falls in the range of a low-cost parts replacement, often between $10 and $40 for the part. If the control board is at fault, parts and labor can range from $150 to $350 or more depending on the model and service rates in your area.

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